A space heater provides comforting warmth during the cold days of winter, but it can also pose a significant fire hazard.

The Massachusetts Executive Office of Public Safety and Security offers these space-heater safety tips:

  • Look for a heater that's tested by Underwriters Laboratories or similar.
  • Place your heater at least 3 feet from any furniture, drapes or other flammable items.
  • Make sure the heater is on a level surface and in a safe place where no one is likely to bump into it.
  • Avoid using an extension cord. If you must use one, make sure it is heavy duty and has a power rating that is a compatible with the rating on the heater.
  • Carefully supervise any pets or children near a heater.
  • Only use a heater for temporary heating, and never leave it running while you are not home or while sleeping.
Port Jefferson and Amityville are dropping their varsity football programs for the 2026 season. Port Jefferson doesn't have enough players to field a team, while Amityville have enough healthy upperclassmen to field a team. Newsday's High School Sports Editor Gregg Sarra reports.

'That's a shame' Port Jefferson and Amityville are dropping their varsity football programs for the 2026 season. Newsday's High School Sports Editor Gregg Sarra reports.

Port Jefferson and Amityville are dropping their varsity football programs for the 2026 season. Port Jefferson doesn't have enough players to field a team, while Amityville have enough healthy upperclassmen to field a team. Newsday's High School Sports Editor Gregg Sarra reports.

'That's a shame' Port Jefferson and Amityville are dropping their varsity football programs for the 2026 season. Newsday's High School Sports Editor Gregg Sarra reports.

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